Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

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Rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor, this Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo is the kind of meal that turns a weeknight dinner into something truly comforting. Tender chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, and orzo pasta all simmer slowly in a garlicky, herby cream sauce that melts together like magic. The result? A wholesome, hearty dinner that feels like a Tuscan hug in a bowl.

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Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

This recipe brings together the ease of a slow cooker with the elegance of Tuscan ingredients. It’s ideal for busy nights when you want something fuss-free but satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the family or craving leftovers for the next day, this is the cozy, creamy chicken pasta dish that always delivers.


Why You’ll Love This Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

  • One-pot magic: Toss it all in the slow cooker and let it work its flavorful wonders.
  • Comfort food with flair: Creamy, garlicky, and packed with Mediterranean richness.
  • Meal-prep friendly: Tastes even better the next day!
  • Family-approved: Even picky eaters will go back for seconds.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish because they shred easily after slow cooking, soaking up the creamy sauce. However, you can also use boneless thighs if you prefer darker meat—they bring even more richness and tenderness. Make sure the chicken is cut into chunks if you want quicker cooking and easier serving.


Ingredients for the Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Every ingredient in this recipe is chosen to deliver comfort and flavor in every bite.

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – These form the hearty, protein-rich base.
  • Orzo pasta – Small, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up sauce perfectly.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes – Add sweet, tangy bursts of flavor.
  • Baby spinach – Lends color, nutrition, and a slight earthiness.
  • Garlic cloves – For aromatic depth and that classic Tuscan taste.
  • Cream cheese – Brings the creamy texture and richness.
  • Chicken broth – Infuses everything with savory depth.
  • Italian seasoning – Adds balanced herby warmth.
  • Salt and pepper – Simple but essential for seasoning.
  • Parmesan cheese – Finishes the dish with a salty, umami kick.

How To Make the Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Step 1: Load the Crockpot

Place chicken breasts, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sun-dried tomatoes into the crockpot. Pour the chicken broth over it all and give a gentle stir.

Step 2: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Step 3: Shred and Stir

Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Add the cream cheese and stir until fully melted and creamy.

Step 4: Add Orzo and Spinach

Stir in the orzo pasta and chopped baby spinach. Cover and cook on high for another 20-30 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan, stir to combine, and taste for seasoning. Add extra salt or pepper if needed.


How to Serve and Store This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

This hearty recipe feeds about 6 people, making it perfect for family dinners or batch cooking. Serve it straight from the crockpot into deep bowls with extra Parmesan and a crack of black pepper on top.

To store, allow leftovers to cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.


What to Serve With Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery, and the perfect scoop for extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crisp greens and creamy dressing add freshness to balance the dish.

Roasted Asparagus

Light and roasted to perfection, it complements the richness.

Steamed Broccoli

Simple and nutritious with a touch of crunch.

Antipasto Skewers

Great as a pre-dinner nibble with olives, salami, and cheese.

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A bold, tangy contrast to the creamy orzo.

Crusty Baguette

Warm slices for dipping and soaking up every bit of sauce.

Lemon Sparkling Water or White Wine

A refreshing drink cuts the richness and refreshes the palate.


Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this creamy classic hit the spot, explore more comfort dishes that bring bold flavor to your table:


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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use thighs or breasts? Toss in extra garlic? I’m all ears!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your new go-to for feeling great!


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Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo


  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 7 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

Warm, creamy, and deeply comforting, this Classic Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Orzo is everything a cozy dinner should be. Slow-cooked chicken melts into a rich, garlic cream sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, while tender orzo and baby spinach round out this one-pot wonder. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding the whole family with ease. It’s a crowd-pleaser packed with flavors that taste like they simmered all day—because they did! This is one of those easy dinner ideas that transforms simple ingredients into something special. Great for anyone looking for a hearty, creamy, easy recipe that doubles as both dinner and tomorrow’s lunch. Looking for dinner ideas with chicken? This one deserves a spot on your list.


Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts

1.5 cups orzo pasta

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and sliced)

3 cups baby spinach (chopped)

3 garlic cloves (minced)

8 oz cream cheese (cubed)

3.5 cups chicken broth

1.5 tsp Italian seasoning

1 tsp salt

0.5 tsp black pepper

0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese


Instructions

1. Place chicken breasts, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sun-dried tomatoes into the crockpot.

2. Pour in chicken broth and give a gentle stir to mix.

3. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender.

4. Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks.

5. Add cream cheese and stir until fully melted and creamy.

6. Stir in orzo pasta and chopped spinach.

7. Cover and cook on high for 20–30 minutes, until orzo is tender.

8. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and stir to combine.

9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

10. Serve warm with extra Parmesan and black pepper.

Notes

For richer flavor, substitute boneless chicken thighs for breasts.

Add red pepper flakes for a gentle kick of heat.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 hours
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 530
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 840mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: creamy chicken, slow cooker meals, Tuscan orzo, crockpot chicken, easy dinner ideas

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